Abstract: A guide for protecting threads and seals when joining lengths of production tubing has a guiding portion made of two semicyclindrical polypropylene elements, which when placed together have an annular cross section and form a funnel-like upper end. A strap made of two generally semicircular halves fits within an outer recess on the surfaces of the guiding elements. Abutting edges of the strap halves are constructed with interfitting projections and a central recess for a torsion spring. A hinge pin extends through the projections and the torsion spring. Opposite edges of the strap halves have central recesses to receive a latch. Pins extend axially through the recesses. A latch is pivoted on one pin and engages the other pin when the latch is closed. Handles fit in diametrically opposite circular recesses between the hinge pin and latch pins. The handles are secured by large bolts having heads which engage internal recesses in the guide halves.

Abstract: Male and female tubing or pipe ends have tapered thread with a sealing profile and a shoulder seal. A tapered end on the male tube cooperates with a tapered plastic compression seal at an internal shoulder in the female end. A modification has a tapered seat seal with complementary tapers at the end of the male connection and in the innermost part of the female connection. A plastic self-energized O-ring seal is positioned partly within an annular recess at the large end of the tapered seat in the female part.